Kalwall leads the way in retrofit design for the University of Tennessee

Kalwall® translucent cladding was recently chosen to help transform a former marble processing plant into an amazing space for the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, USA.

Designed by Cope Associates, the new Facilities Services Complex has totally revitalised and refreshed the original 1908 building and the use of Kalwall has helped the projects LEED Silver Certification. 

The panels, exclusively available in the UK and Ireland from Structura UK Ltd, were fitted into the original clerestory encircling the entrance hall. 

The Kalwall keeps the interior free from glare and hotspots and the stark contrasts of light and shade. It also specifically helps the computer users by keeping direct sunlight and glare off their screens making it more restful and reducing eye fatigue.

Furthermore, Kalwall’s insulation properties mean ‘U’ Values of up to 0.28 W/m2K can be achieved. This is as energy efficient as a normal cavity wall and four times better than insulated glass units. Therefore there is less of a demand for artificial heating and cooling, while the translucence reduces the need for artificial lighting.

The strong and lightweight panels are factory prefabricated to the exact size needed for each project. They are easily be retrofitted into existing spaces and can often use the existing substrate saving both time and money on removal and new fabrication. This, coupled with the low maintenance colour stable, UV resistant and self-cleaning surface, has the additional advantage that ongoing maintenance is kept to a minimum thereby avoiding cost and disruption.

The project has since proven very successful – it was even named the Collegiate Citation winner for historic preservation in American School and University’s annual Educational Interiors Showcase Award.

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